Where to go for unforgettable activity holidays

Looking to go beyond the usual travel experiences? Maybe it’s time you tried an adventure getaway. Vacations don’t always have to be about rest and recuperation—sometimes they’re about getting out of your comfort zone. From hikes and motorbike tours to kayaking and rafting, outdoor adventure travel can encompass so many different activities, so the only questions are where you want to go and what you want to do when you get there. No matter what destination and outdoor pursuits you decide on, selecting the perfect vacation rental is easy when there are so many to choose from.

The best places to visit for an adventure vacation

The best adventure vacations aren't always in the most far-flung places. Although some fantastic activity holidays can be found in locations you might have never heard of before, many are only a plane, train, or bus ride away. And whether you’re setting out as a family, couple, or solo traveler, each destination is bound to capture your imagination while getting your adrenaline pumping at the same time. Ogle the breathtaking scenery on a multi-day hiking trip across Lord Howe Island in Australia, or gear up for a challenging but picturesque cycling holiday in Japan—at the end of the day, it’s all about new and fun experiences. And with plenty of villa rentals, getaway cabins, and vacations homes on offer, you’ll have no trouble finding a base for your action-packed trip.

Hiking in Australia

Australia has some of the best hikes and walks in the world. From epic treks like the 5-day walk across Lord Howe Island, to shorter hikes through world-renowned destinations like Wilsons Promontory—which offers beautiful, secluded beaches that have to be seen to be believed—there are no shortage of on-foot holidays to enjoy Down Under. You can book a vacation rental with a hot tub or a pool so you can rest your sore muscles when you return from your awe-inspiring adventures on Aussie terrain.

Motorbike tours in Vietnam

Visitors heading to Vietnam might be aware that the motorcycle is one of the most common modes of transport in the country. However, what you might not know is that in recent years, motorcycle tours have become increasingly popular in the Southeast Asian destination. Hanoi and the stunning northern provinces offer an endless array of thrillingly narrow mountain passes, lush valleys, and intriguing coffee plantations to explore, as well as charming villages with cozy vacation rentals to stay in.

Rafting in the Grand Canyon

There are many ways to explore the Grand Canyon, including helicopter tours and mule rides, but there's nothing like hopping into a raft and drifting down the Colorado River to see the magnificent canyon up close. Whether you’ve tried whitewater rafting or not, there are a variety of self-directed or guided tour options available for every skill level. Ideally you’ll need to book 6 to 12 months in advance, but you'll be glad you've made the reservation when you discover the outdoor destination’s incredible history, geological wonders, and hidden hikes.

Cycling in Japan

There's good reason Japan is celebrated for its natural beauty. The country is absolutely stunning from top to bottom—from the meticulous Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa and the iconic Mount Fuji in Honshu, to the scenic coastlines along the Seto Inland Sea and the incredible hot springs of Hokkaido. Japan’s roads are not only scenic, but also very bike-friendly. Even beginner cyclists can enjoy the best adventure vacation possible with specially built cycling routes like the Shimanami Kaidō, a picturesque 37-mile expressway that spans 7 islands. Make sure to book a vacation rental in Onomichi or Imbari for easy access to the cycling route's starting point.

Sea kayaking in Croatia

The food, beaches, architecture, and history are just some of the many reasons to visit Croatia. It's simply one of those countries that has it all, and that includes fun-filled vacation activities and great summer rentals. Sea kayaking in particular has become one of the top reasons outdoor vacationers have been heading to the gorgeous Adriatic coast. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of Dubrovnik or the quieter vibe of islands like Vis, there’s a sea kayaking vacation in Croatia to suit every traveler.